I saw the angels

By John Tustin

I saw the angels.

I saw them while I was asleep

Or maybe I was half asleep and half awake.

There was this song by Ray Wylie Hubbard in my head

Or maybe Rodney Crowell or Townes Van Zandt

And I was dressed all in red

As the angels crowded around me.

They rended my clothes and exposed my heart.

I saw they had no smiles.

I saw they had no frowns.

I saw that they were at work.

They lifted me upright

And then they told me that The Good Samaritan was to be admired

And I was to do likewise

And then they told me to love all people as I loved God

And that I must love God because I am His reflection

And lastly

I was told that if they loved me

They would come to me

And if they did not come to me

Then I should love them anyway

But let them be.

Here I am, awake now,

Trying to love myself

And everyone who has wronged me

Or forgotten my name

While I wait for you,

Whom I cannot help but love

No matter your response,

Ignorance,

Acquiescence or

Reciprocation.

I see the angels.

They come and speak to me while I am asleep

And they tell me to love without condition

And to do good

And that is easy to do

While I am sleeping.

Sometimes.